Question

we hold these truths to be self - evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. that to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. that whenever any form of government becomes destructive to these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness... what does this passage suggest about the authority of government? governments originate from kings and cannot be taken away. government has the power to take private property for national defense. government is the source of natural rights of citizens. governments are based on the social contract meant to guarantee individual rights.

Explanation:

The passage states governments are instituted to secure inalienable rights like life, liberty and pursuit of happiness, deriving power from the consent of the governed. This reflects the social - contract theory where government is based on an agreement to protect individual rights.

Answer:

Governments are based on the social contract meant to guarantee individual rights.